Mirziyoyev Reviews Burhanuddin Margilani Complex in Margilan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has visited the Burhanuddin Margilani scientific, educational and tourism complex in the city of Margilan in Ferghana region, where he reviewed cultural facilities, service infrastructure and development projects implemented as part of a broader effort to enhance the region’s tourism potential.

In recent years, Ferghana has seen a steady increase in tourist arrivals, including a several-fold rise in foreign visitors. Margilan, known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, has become one of the key centers of this growth. In line with a presidential decree dated April 1, 2025, the complex is being developed as a “city within a city,” combining traditional architectural elements with modern tourism infrastructure.

The project covers 35 hectares and includes a hotel, caravanserai, commercial and service facilities, a crafts center, a national bazaar, and a museum. Special attention is given to promoting the scientific legacy of the medieval scholar Burhanuddin Margilani, alongside the preservation of traditional crafts and the development of pilgrimage and cultural tourism.

The complex also features a museum known as the “House of Otabek and Kumush,” where scenes from the classic novel “Days Gone By” are brought to life through artistic installations. In addition, a maqom theatre, an avenue of poets and artists, and a library have been created, forming a unified cultural and educational space.

The master plan for the project, valued at 1.7 trillion soums, was developed by Turkey’s Studio Vertebra. Construction is being carried out in two phases. Future plans include a business center, a mosque with a capacity of 1,500 people, around 400 commercial and service outlets, and an oriental bazaar with 300 trading spaces.

During the visit, the president inspected construction progress, toured artisan workshops, exhibitions of applied arts, and commercial areas, and held discussions with local community representatives.

Once fully operational, the complex is expected to attract 200,000 to 250,000 foreign tourists annually. It is projected to create around 2,000 jobs, generate 52 billion soums in budget revenues, and produce up to US$30 million in tourism service exports.

Officials say the Burhanuddin Margilani project will serve as a model for similar cultural and tourism developments across the country, including initiatives in Bukhara, Samarkand, Kokand, Namangan and the old city area of Tashkent.